Electricity

Electricity is a type of energy we use every day. It lights up our homes and runs our TVs, phones, and computers. Electricity is made by tiny parts of atoms called electrons. When these electrons move, they carry energy. This moving energy is called an electric current.

How Electricity Moves

Electricity flows through wires made of metal, like copper. The path it travels on is called a circuit. If the circuit is open, the electricity stops. If the circuit is closed, the electricity keeps flowing. A switch lets us open and close a circuit to turn things on and off.

An old drawing of Thales, a wise thinker from ancient Greece.
An old drawing of Thales, a wise thinker from ancient Greece. (Unidentified engraver / Wikimedia Commons)

Where Electricity Comes From

Most electricity is made at big buildings called power plants. Some plants burn coal or gas to make it. Others use wind, water, or sunlight, which are cleaner. The electricity then travels through long wires to reach our homes. Batteries can also store electricity for small things like toys and flashlights.

Fun Facts

  • Lightning is a huge burst of natural electricity from the sky.
  • Benjamin Franklin did a famous experiment with a kite to learn about electricity.
  • Some fish, like electric eels, can make their own electricity to protect themselves.

Did You Know?

Electricity travels almost as fast as the speed of light, which is why a light turns on right when you flip the switch.